Sports Network

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Steelers quarterback Dennis Dixon was forced to leave Sunday's game against Tennessee with an apparent left knee injury.

It was unclear exactly how the injury occurred, but Charlie Batch took the field three minutes into the second quarter while Dixon was being checked out on the sideline.

Dixon was later carted off to the locker room for X-rays on his left knee. His last play from scrimmage was a run toward the left sideline for seven yards, during which he did not appear to favour the knee.

Pittsburgh's quarterback situation for the rest of Sunday's game is shaky at best. The team decided to release supposed No. 2 Byron Leftwich on Saturday to free up a roster spot to add a defensive lineman for Sunday.

The Steelers are expected to re-sign him next week, but that does little to change the fact that Batch is the only true quarterback left dressed for Sunday's contest. If need be, former Indiana University quarterback-turned NFL wideout Antwaan Randle El could take snaps under center.

Dixon was 4-of-6 for 18 yards with 28 yards rushing on three attempts before exiting.